Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a relatively common psychological problem, whose symptoms can be seriously disabling to the sufferer. These symptoms can include excessive hand-washing or other cleaning rituals, repeated checking, extreme slowness and unwanted, repugnant intrusive thoughts.This book, written by two clinical psychologists with extensive clinical and research experience in this field, gives a lucid account of the nature of obsessive-compulsive problems. It is intended for sufferers and their families as well as general readers interested in finding out about thedisorder. This new third edition gives up-to-date information about the nature, symptoms, causes and theories of obsessive-compulsive disorder. It also discusses the treatments that are available and provides valuable practical advice to those who may need help. Numerous case histories are giventhroughout the book, highlighting various aspects of the disorder and its treatment. New to this edition are sections on scrupulosity, on culture and OCD, and on mental pollution as well as a new chapter on obsessive-compulsive disorder in children and on the similarities and differences between childhood OCD and autistic disorder. There is also expanded coverage of many othertopics, including new developments in the understanding and treatment of obsessional thoughts, and a new table detailing drugs used for the disorder.

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The authors are both clinical psychologists who have extensive clinical and research experience in this field. Their contribution to the study of this area is widely acknowledged. They are the authors of another book in this series - Panic Disorder: The Facts.

From reviews of the previous edition:

'The book is intended as an information source for patients who have OCD and their families and friends, but it would also be very useful for workers in health care who need to have an overview of this disorder but are not directly involved in assessment and treatment. It would also be usefulfor family practitioners as a quick read... an excellent description of obsessions and compulsions with great attention to detail... extremely helpful for a patient and family when first engaging in cognitive behavioural therapy... well written, well organized, and easy to read.'Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience

'Clear and accessible language [and] practical advice... Strengths of the book include the frequent use of clinical examples and case material. This feature makes the book a useful primer on the condition for undergraduate and graduate psychology students, quickly giving them the clinicalflavour of the condition... a fascinating read for the general public... the book is beautifully written in a concise, simple (yet extremely accurate) style... this is the best short work for the general public, on any psychiatric disorder [and] it will prove invaluable for sufferers of OCD, theirfamilies and their clinicians.'Behaviour and Research Therapy